Joey The Juggler
Carlo's circus Series
What’s inside...
Joey needs somewhere to practice his tricks, but everywhere he goes he makes too much Hoopla and is in the way! Until, his practicing saves the day! 'Start Reading' is a reader development series for Key Stage 1 which closely follows the national curriculum and literacy strategy.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-12
Length
24 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think Joey felt when he first learned to juggle?
What do you think motivated Joey to keep practicing his juggling?
Can you think of a time when you kept trying even when something was difficult?
Why do you think it's important to help friends, like Joey helps his friends in the story?
How would you help a friend in a similar way that Joey did?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story.
Connect the story to real-life situations by discussing times when perseverance and helping others played a role in your child's life.
Encourage your child to imagine alternative endings or scenarios in the story to foster creative thinking.
Discuss the emotions of the characters in the book, asking your child to interpret facial expressions and actions.
Praise your child’s responses to build their confidence in expressing their opinions and thoughts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Practice and Perseverance
Explanation: Joey the Juggler demonstrates the power of practice as he works tirelessly to improve his juggling skills throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children can learn that persistent effort and practice are key to mastering new skills, whether in academics, sports, or arts.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Challenges
Explanation: Joey faces and overcomes various setbacks as he prepares for the big circus show, teaching resilience and problem-solving.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand that obstacles are a natural part of life and that they can overcome them by thinking creatively and not giving up.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: Throughout the story, Joey receives help from his circus friends, emphasizing the importance of working together to achieve common goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding in group activities at school or play, learning to collaborate and value each other's contributions.
Example Lesson: Self-Confidence
Explanation: As Joey improves, his confidence grows. This transformation is evident in his performance at the show, where he performs skillfully and proudly.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to take pride in their achievements and abilities, boosting their self-esteem and encouraging them to take on new challenges.
Example Lesson: Joy in Sharing Talents
Explanation: The climax of the book, where Joey performs joyfully, highlights the satisfaction derived from sharing one’s skills and bringing happiness to others.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of sharing their own talents and experiences to enrich the lives of others around them, fostering a sense of community and belonging.